Cyclists are being offered the chance to try out a section of the Tour de France route in Essex.

The Wiggle Essex Explorer will see participants take on a 39, 60 or 100-mile route, four weeks before the start of the iconic cycling event.

Simon Thomson, director of Kilo To Go which is hosting the event, said: "The Wiggle Essex Explorer follows the same route as the 2014 Tour De France stage three.

"This is a rare chance for cyclists to ride the same roads that four weeks later will be contested by the best riders in the world.

"With a choice of routes available through the rural countryside, offering occasional views of London, the Essex Explorer will appeal to cyclists of all levels."

Caudwell Children is the official charity partner for the Wiggle Essex Explorer, which sets off from Ongar Leisure Centre on June 8.

Kirsten Greaves, the charity's challenge co-ordinator, said: "Our partnership with Kilo To Go has been a great success this year with hundreds of cyclists jumping in the saddle and raising money.

"Caudwell Children work to provide practical and emotional support to families living with disabled children and riding as part of one of our leading cycling sportives is a great opportunity to get out in the sun and make a difference to children's lives."

For more details or to register, contact Kirsten Greaves on 01782 600435 or email Kirsten.greaves@caudwellchildren.com.

Essex hosts the third stage of this year’s Tour de France and the final of the three stages being held in England before the riders return to France.

Britain’s Chris Froome is the defending champion while Maldon’s Alex Dowsett will be hoping to make his Tour de France debut for the Spanish team Movistar and give the Essex fans a home favourite to cheer on as the race snakes its way through the county.